History of Souillac

Souillac developed around a Benedictine abbey founded in the 11th century, which became a major pilgrimage site thanks to its relics and the famous "Trumeau" relief in the abbey church. The town grew as a river port and market center along the Dordogne, prospering through trade in wine, timber, and local produce.

The abbey church of Sainte-Marie, built in the 12th-13th centuries, is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture with remarkable carved portals and the famous "Entombment" relief. Souillac endured the Hundred Years' War and Wars of Religion but preserved much of its medieval heritage. In the 19th century, the railway arrived, making it an important junction. Today, it remains a lively market town with strong cultural and gastronomic traditions.

Highlights of Souillac

Souillac captivates with its elegant abbey church, lively central square, and scenic riverside setting. The town center features historic buildings, arcaded streets, and a vibrant market atmosphere, while the Dordogne River offers walks and views. Excellent rail links to Toulouse make it a convenient stop.

Key highlights:

• Abbatiale Sainte-Marie – 12th-century Romanesque abbey church with famous "Trumeau" relief & "Entombment" sculpture
• Place de la Libération & weekly markets (Fridays & Sundays)
• Dordogne River quays – Scenic walks & views
• Musée de l'Automate – Quirky museum of antique automata & toys
• Medieval streets & historic houses
• Local gastronomy (foie gras, truffles, Rocamadour cheese)
• Rail hub to Toulouse & southern France
• Nearby: Rocamadour (~30 min), Martel, Collonges-la-Rouge

Walking Tour – Things to See and Do in Souillac

A visit to Souillac typically takes 2–4 hours (longer on market day). Park in free lots near the center (compact and walkable with gentle slopes).

1. Abbatiale Sainte-Marie – Start at the Romanesque abbey church. Admire the façade, famous "Trumeau" relief (Daniel in the lions' den), and interior sculptures including the poignant "Entombment."

2. Place de la Libération – Walk to the central square for cafés, shops, and the Friday/Sunday markets with fresh produce and regional specialties.

3. Historic Streets – Wander narrow lanes with medieval and Renaissance houses, arcades, and artisan boutiques.

4. Dordogne River Quays – Stroll along the river for views of bridges and the peaceful valley setting.

5. Musée de l'Automate – Visit this unique museum of antique automata, mechanical toys, and dolls (short walk from center).

6. Relaxation – Enjoy a meal or drink at a café on the square or by the river.

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for cobbles. Visit market days for vibrancy. Combine with Rocamadour (~30 min drive) or Martel. Check tourist office for abbey hours and guided tours.

Getting to Souillac

Souillac (Lot department) is just over the Dordogne border (~25-30 km / 25-35 minutes drive from Sarlat-la-Canéda), making it an easy and worthwhile trip. It is an excellent rail hub for trains to Toulouse and further south.

By air: Nearest airport is Brive Vallée de la Dordogne (BVE, ~30-40 min drive) with seasonal flights (including London Stansted). Bergerac (EGC, ~1 h) or Bordeaux (BOD, ~2 h) for more options. Rent a car; taxis limited.

By train: Souillac has a major SNCF station on the Bordeaux–Toulouse–Cahors–Paris line. Direct Intercités/TGV from Paris (~4-5 h), Toulouse (~1-1.5 h), Bordeaux (~2 h), or Brive (~30-45 min). Station is walkable to center. Excellent connections south to Occitanie.

By car: Via A20 motorway (exit Souillac) or Dordogne roads from Sarlat (~25-35 min), Brive (~40 min), or Bergerac (~1 h). Free parking in/near town. Worth the short drive from Sarlat.

Tips: Train is very convenient for arrivals from north or south. Car ideal for day trips to Rocamadour or Dordogne sites. Book summer transport ahead.

Fun Facts about Souillac

Souillac has a rich abbey and market heritage. Here are some interesting facts:

• The abbey church's "Trumeau" relief of Daniel in the lions' den is a masterpiece of Romanesque sculpture.
• Souillac is a key rail junction — one of the best places in the region for trains to Toulouse and southern France.
• The Musée de l'Automate features one of the world's finest collections of antique mechanical toys and automata.
• Friday and Sunday markets are lively with local Lot and Dordogne produce, cheeses, and wines.
• The town's position on the Dordogne River made it an important medieval river port and trading center.